Second Growth

Set in the struggling town of Hillville, the narrative explores the impact of an illegitimate child's birth and loss, which triggers a chain reaction among the townspeople over six months. With themes of desperation and resilience, the story features a diverse cast, from wild-child Beck Overholt to elderly Clemintina Wilkinson. Ruth Moore intricately depicts the harsh realities of Downeast life, including violent deaths and natural disasters, while showcasing the community's reliance on seasonal work and government support amid an exhausted landscape.